GROUP VISITS GUIDE 2021-2022 - Historic Royal Palaces
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GROUP VISITS GUIDE 2021-2022
I N T RO D U CT I O N A N D C O N T E N TS
We are a team of people who love and look after six Treat your groups to over 900 years of drama,
of the most wonderful palaces in the world. devotion, secrets stories and royal intrigue at some
We create space for spirits to stir and be stirred. We want of the greatest palaces ever built. Your visits will
everyone to feel welcome and accepted. We tell stories follow in the footsteps of the great, good, devious
about the monarchs you know and the lives you don’t. and dastardly, providing memories of a great day
We let children explore and we set minds racing. out, your customers will want to return again
We are a charity and your support gives the palaces a and again.
future, for everyone.
TOWER OF PAGE 8
This Group Visits Guide is designed to give organisers of LONDON
group travel and travel industry professionals inspiration
for excursions and days out and to make the process as
seamless as possible. With so much to uncover at so many
attractions, your only challenge is which to choose first! HAMPTON PAGE 14
COURT PALACE
How to use this guide
We have designed a helpful key to assist in the planning
of your group visit and to ensure your customers
have a fun packed day and make the most of their time
KENSINGTON PAGE 20
at the palaces. PALACE
Look out for these icons on the “Must see
attractions” pages for each palace to best tailor
your group’s experience.
KEW PALACE PAGE 26
THE ROYAL KITCHENS,
THE GREAT PAGODA,
Steps and uneven staircases QUEEN CHARLOTTE’S
COTTAGE
Wheelchair access HILLSBOROUGH PAGE 32
CASTLE AND
Youth groups – children, families, GARDENS
multigenerational friendly
arge groups – space for large
L
group visits BANQUETING PAGE 38
HOUSE
Small groups – suitable for groups
up to 20 people at a time
Private tours available on request AT YOUR SERVICE PAGE 3
TICKETING OPTIONS PAGE 4
Gardens – activities for groups with CATERING PAGE 6
an interest in gardens GET SOCIAL WITH US PAGE 40
1
AT YO U R SE RV I C E
Historic Royal Palaces has a Sales Blue Badge Guides are given free Easy to get to
Team to assist group organisers admission to escort their clients. For group visits, all palaces have
in planning visits to the palaces Palace Explainers will be on hand coach parking or pick-up and
as well as advising coach and tour to answer any questions your drop-off facilities. All the London
operators with itinerary and clients may have. palaces can be reached by rail,
excursion planning. underground and four palaces
For further information, please contact by riverboat.
Sales support groupsandtraveltrade@hrp.org.uk
The Sales Team can help you with Accessibility
all your arrangements for your Fanfare Our palaces welcome all visitors and
group’s perfect day out including Published three times a year, Fanfare we try to ensure everyone’s visit is
assistance with planning itineraries, is our newsletter with news on successful and enjoyable. Registered
information on our group forthcoming exhibitions, seasonal disabled visitors are charged the
ticketing options, dedicated group events and special tours to help you relevant ticket price and carers are
ticket offices and on-site catering. plan your excursions. admitted free of charge.
The sales team can also help you
promote and sell your tours and Quick-Blast! As historical sites, our palaces do
excursions with content, copy and News of last-minute offers and timely have uneven or cobbled surfaces
images, which can be downloaded announcements of new exhibitions and narrow staircases in places. Full
from hrp.org.uk/travel.trade. and events will be sent in our accessibility information including
Quick-Blasts! wheelchair access and information
Free admission on sign language tours can be found
Free admission is given at all palaces Sign up here for Fanfare and on our website hrp.org.uk.
to coach drivers and locally Quick-Blasts.
registered Blue Badge Guides. Website
Groups that include members of Added value Visit the dedicated group planning
Historic Royal Palaces will avail of Group discounts apply to parties pages on the Historic Royal Palaces
the group price as long as there are of 15 visitors or more and regular website, hrp.org.uk/travel-trade, for
15 people in total. Full members of interpretation events are included the latest information and help in
Association of Group Travel in general admission. planning your itineraries and online
Organisers (AGTO) are eligible for group booking.
free admission when bringing a Money saving catering vouchers and
group of at least 15 paying visitors. group menus are available in palace
cafes.
Guiding in the palaces
Blue Badge and Accredited Guides Admission voucher scheme and
can guide inside the Tower of account facilities for coach and tour
London and Hampton Court operators upon application.
Palace. No guiding is currently
allowed inside Kensington Palace
due to space restrictions however
3
TICKETING OPTIONS
Historic Royal Palaces have Once booked, tickets are sent with Royal Pass
developed group friendly ticket your confirmation email. For six or One ticket to over 900 years of royal
options that allow easy access to less visitors, tickets can be presented history!
the palaces for your customers on a mobile device, for more than six
and simplified payment terms for visitors, tickets must be printed and This Travel Trade only, flexible
volume Travel Trade suppliers. distributed to group members prior combination ticket offers unbeatable
to arriving at the gate. value. The pass is valid for one year
Online Group Ticketing from the date of issue for one visit
Groups Organisers, coach and tour All tickets are scanned at the per valid palace, therefore giving
operators can book their tickets point of entry, avoiding queuing the traveller flexibility to plan their
for the Tower of London, Hampton to exchange vouchers for palace own itinerary.
Court Palace, Kensington Palace tickets and allowing more time for
and Hillsborough Castle and customers to enjoy the palaces. The Royal Pass gives the traveller
Gardens via our website entry to the Tower of London,
hrp.org.uk/travel-trade. Group rates Agency Voucher Scheme members Hampton Court Palace and
apply to orders for 15 tickets or more, can amend and cancel bookings Kensington Palace.
payment by credit card is required up to the day of arrival. Payment
at time of booking. Tickets are sent is required monthly for daily final This pass is exclusive to group
with the confimation email. Tickets booking numbers in the B2B portal organisers and Travel Trade clients
must be printed and distributed to for each day of that month. and cannot be purchased at the
the group members in advance of palaces directly.
arriving at the gate. Please contact groupsandtravel-
trade@hrp.org.uk for registration and For details of pass prices contact
Agency Voucher Scheme and User Manual details and criteria for groupsandtraveltrade@hrp.org.uk.
B2B portal joining the Agency Voucher scheme.
Members of the Historic Royal
Palaces Agency Voucher Scheme
must pre-book customers through
the B2B portal. With a secure login,
bookings can be made 24 hours a
day, 7 days a week for the Tower of
London, Hampton Court Palace,
Kensington Palace and Hillsborough
Castle and Gardens.
All palaces operate on a timed
admission basis, so you must reserve
a date and time slot in advance.
Details of opening and closing times
and time slots are detailed on the
palace pages in this guide.
4
CAT ERING DEALS RETA I L T H E RA PY
Our meal voucher scheme for HAMPTON COURT PALACE KENSINGTON PALACE
groups of 15 or more (20 or more Tiltyard Café Situated on the Orangery lawns,
for Hillsborough Castle), provides Option 1 - Morning tea or coffee overlooking the sunken garden, the
great meal deal options across before 12.00 Pavilion offers an alternative on-site
the palaces throughout the day. including a freshly baked muffin catering space whilst the Orangery
Simply select the one that best or pastry. undergoes restoration and rebuilding
suits your itinerary! £6.00 per person work.
TOWER OF LONDON
Option 2 - Light lunch Breakfast before 11.30
New Armouries Café A bowl of seasonal soup and rustic Start the day with a ‘Full English’ –
Option 1 - Morning tea or coffee bread or a freshly made sandwich, streaky bacon, field mushroom, BANQUETING HOUSE
before 11.00 both with a choice of non-alcoholic vine tomatoes, sausage, black Whilst there are no on-site catering
including a freshly baked muffin drink and a slice of cake. pudding and scrambled eggs, facilities at the Banqueting House,
or pastry. £10.50 per person including a choice of tea or coffee. close by there are numerous
£6.00 per person £12.50 per person restaurants, cafes and bars.
Option 3 - Hot lunch
Option 2 - Light lunch Main course dish served from Morning Cream Tea before 12.00 KEW PALACE
A bowl of seasonal soup and rustic our hot counter and a dessert pot Orange scented and currant scones At Kew Palace groups can arrange
bread or a freshly made sandwich, or slice of cake with a choice of served with Cornish clotted cream refreshments with Kew Gardens Whether inspired by the iconic black Visitors can also select products from
both with a choice of non-alcoholic non-alcoholic drink. and English strawberry jam. Served caterers by calling +44 (0) 20 8332 5186. ravens or the legendary Royal Beasts our in-store tablets and have gifts
drink and a cake or dessert. £17.95 per person with a range of loose leaf teas and
HILLSBOROUGH CASTLE at the Tower of London, by the shipped direct to home.
£10.50 per person tisanes or coffee.
AND GARDENS stunning gardens at Hampton Court
Option 4 - Traditional Cream Tea £6.50 per person
Palace or the sumptuous ceilings and Don’t forget our full range of
Option 3 - Hot lunch A delicious homemade scone with Groups of 20 or more can enjoy a
interiors at Kensington Palace, our palace inspired gifts can be
Main course dish served from the strawberry jam and clotted cream Afternoon Tea range of catering offers in our new
palaces provide a unique shopping purchased online at
hot counter with a dessert pot and your choice of tea or coffee. A selection of sandwiches, an orange catering facilities located in the Wel-
opportunity for your clients. www.historicroyalpalaces.com
or slice of cake and a choice of £6.25 per person scented scone served with Cornish come Centre. From morning coffee
non-alcoholic drink. clotted cream and English strawberry and tea, lunches and traditional
Therefore, while planning your itin-
£17.95 per person The Snug jam and a selection of dainty pastries afternoon teas, enhance your groups
eraries, make sure to allow time for
Situated within the Tiltyard Cafe, served with a range of loose-leaf teas visit and enquire with our caterers.
a visit to our royal shops where we
Option 4 - Traditional Cream Tea the Snug is a cosy area perfect for and tisanes or coffee.
Contact details: offer a wide selection of chinaware,
A delicious homemade scone with groups of up to 25 people to enjoy £19.95 per person
Contact details jewellery, toys, clothing, accessories
strawberry jam and clotted cream a morning coffee or afternoon tea.
Hillsborough Castle and much more; all of which would
and your choice of tea or coffee. Lunch
+44 (0) 3166 6000 make a perfect souvenir of your
£6.25 per person Our caterers Ampersand will be Group lunch options are also
groupsandtraveltrade@hrp.org.uk clients’ trip as well as a great gift for
happy to discuss your group’s available, please contact our caterers
their friends and family back home.
Contact details: requirements, contact them to discuss your requirements.
Tower of London directly for further details.
Contact our retail team on
+44 (0) 20 3166 6002 Contact details:
shop@hrp.org.uk to discuss delivery
tol@ampersandcatering.co.uk Contact details: Kensington Palace
and discount rates for bulk
Hampton Court Palace +44 (0) 20 3166 6112
purchases.
+44 (0) 20 3166 6972 booking@kensingtonpalacepavilion.
hcp@ampersandcatering.co.uk co.uk
TOWER OF
LONDON
This iconic UNESCO World Heritage Site has almost 1000 years
of intriguing tales to tell. Meet the Yeoman Warders, marvel at the
fabulous finery of the Crown Jewels and discover an unrivalled
collection of royal arms and armour in the ancient White Tower.
Explore all the roles this impressive fortress has had to play
throughout the centuries – from medieval palace, armoury,
to infamous prison and execution site.
9
M UST S EE ATTRACTIONS MUST S E E ATT RACT I O N S
White Tower Yeoman Warders Bloody Tower
The White Tower is an enduring Yeoman Warders, better known as the Explore the most infamous prison
icon of the London skyline, albeit Beefeaters, entertain all our visitors at the Tower of London and the
nowadays dwarfed by, and in that come to the Tower throughout intriguing tales that inspired the
contrast to, the modern city. This the year with their guided tours and name “Bloody Tower”. Discover the
striking historic building dating immense knowledge of this ancient stories of the Princes in the Tower
back to 1075 today houses the Line of palace and fortress. and Sir Walter Raleigh, a favourite
Kings exhibit, a display of royal ar- of Elizabeth I, who spent 13 years as
mour, life-sized wooden horses and a prisoner during the reign of James I.
figures of kings throughout
the centuries.
Royal Beasts
Explore the tales of the many exotic
animals kept at the Tower, from lions,
Crown Jewels
tigers, to elephants and alligators,
The breath-taking world famous
in the Royal Beasts exhibition.
collection of fabulous finery and
Discover the polar bear who fished
regalia – discover the gloriously
in the Thames for his lunch, the
ornate, intricately made Crown
ostrich who ate nails and many other
Jewels and learn how they have
surprising stories. Experience the
inspired acts of greed, violence
sights, sounds and even smells of the
and even spawned stories of
animals through interactive displays
evil curses.
and find out what happened when
the royal beasts escaped...
Medieval Palace
Once a surprisingly comfortable
royal home here you will enter the
rooms of Edward I and discover
life in the opulence and colour of
a medieval royal residence.
10 11
P LA N YOUR VISIT GU I D E D TO U RS A N D DAYS O U T I D EAS
Give your groups an even more Private viewing of the
Top Tips Recommended Visit Time We suggest at least 3 hours
memorable visit by booking a Crown Jewels Opening times
Crown Jewels 40 min Bloody Tower 15 min guided tour or private visit Available in the morning from 08.15 27 March – 31 October 2021
• Book your group’s timeslot experience the stunning regalia Daily: 09.00-18.00hrs – admission
online via our website to secure Royal Beasts 20 min Fortress and battlements 40 min Morning meet and greet away from the crowds. Price based by half hourly time slot
their admission Book a 15-minute welcome talk for on a minimum of 15 people, from
Medieval Palace 20 min Yeoman Warder tour 45 min
your group. A Yeoman Warder will £90+VAT per person, maximum Last admission time slot: 16.00hrs
• The Ceremony of the Word takes White Tower including 40 min meet your group at the Ravens Cages 40, advanced payment required.
place outside Waterloo Block 31 October: – 28 February 2022
Line of Kings for a 15 minute intro to the Tower For availability and bookings contact
daily at 14.45. See the inspection Daily: 09.00-17.00hrs – admission
and a photo opportunity. For events@hrp.org.uk.
of the military guard and by half hourly time slot
information on availability and
collection of the secret word Admission prices 01 April 2021-28 February 2022 prices, please contact Evening Tours
of the day Last admission time slot: 15.00hrs
groupsandtraveltrade@hrp.org.uk. Experience the Tower in a different
Individual price – gate and online Group price light. Meet your Yeoman Warder at
• Save time in your itinerary Adult 24-26 December and 1 January:
£28.90 £26.60 20.30 for an hour-long tour around
by pre-booking Meal Deal Closed
Concession £23.10 £21.30 the Fortress before experiencing
catering vouchers Audio Guides
Child £14.40 £13.30 the worlds longest running Military
Groups of 15 or more can pre-order Booking
ceremony - the Ceremony of the
• Package your group visits with Family 1 adult £43.30 n/a our audio guides at a discounted Book your time slot online
Keys. The cost is £40+VAT per
guidebooks and take advantage Family 2 adults £72.20 n/a price of £3.50 per person. Guides hrp.org.uk/travel-trade.
person for a minimum of 20,
of bulk buying in advance. can be booked by contacting For assistance with your booking
maximum 50 people, advance pay-
towergroups@acoustiguide.co.uk requirements, email
ment required. For availability and
Key and then collected at the entrance. booking.confirmations@hrp.org.uk.
bookings contact events@hrp.org.uk.
CATERING
Coach parking
FACILITY A 24-hour coach park with 16
bays (height restriction
SHOPS
4.7m/15’50) is located in Lower
COACH PARKS
Thames Street. Coaches can
set-down or pick-up passengers
UREAU DE
B free of charge providing they
CHANGE
remain no longer than 15 minutes.
TOILETS: The charge is £10 per hour.
GENTLEMAN Overnight parking between
TOILETS:
17.00 and 09.00 is £25. Contact
LADIES car.parks@cityoflondon.co.uk
(Prices correct at time of
OILETS:
T
DISABLED going to press).
UNDERGROUND
TRAIN LINE
Group catering
Please see pages 6 and 7 for
OVERGROUND catering information.
TRAIN LINE
12 13
HAMPTON
COURT PALACE
Hampton Court Palace is an awe-inspiring and flamboyant
showcase of kingship. It’s vast, endless vistas, courtyards,
gardens and parkland, along with its magnificent
State Apartments rival the great palaces of Europe;
all designed to impress those that visit.
15
M UST S EE ATTRACTIONS MUST S E E ATT RACT I O N S
Henry VIII’s Kitchens Henry VIII’s Apartments The Great Vine
Experience the Tudor Kitchens, the Walk in the footsteps of England’s Planted by Lancelot Capability
well-oiled machine that powered most famous King and his six wives. Brown in 1768, this is the oldest vine
Henry VIII’s magnificent court. Lavishly presented apartments in the world. See the many bunches
Immerse yourself in a bygone era include Henry’s Great Hall, the of grapes develop through the
with grand displays of food, authentic Great Watching Chamber and the summer ready for harvest in late
smells, the heat of the fireplaces, and processional route, allegedly August, early September.
the sounds of the busy kitchen staff. haunted by Catherine Howard,
Henry’s fifth wife.
Privy Garden
The Privy Garden is one of the most
Gold and Glory: Henry VIII and King William III State Apartments accurately reconstructed gardens
the French King A grand and lavishly laid out at Hampton Court because so
From 1 April – 5 September 2021 collection of State Apartments built much was recorded about the
Discover the story behind the by the new monarchs, William and original 1702 garden. The beautiful
Grand European Summit between Mary. Walk through the rooms of geometry of the garden seen against
Henry VIII and François I in this elegant palace and imagine the stunning palace façade is a site
1520, known as the Field of Cloth the beautifully dressed courtiers not to be missed.
of Gold. Meet the organisers, revelling in the politics and gossip
courtiers and kings, and explore of court life. Gaze out of the
dazzling treasures from the windows to the magnificent King’s
Tudor and French courts Privy Garden. Georgian Kitchen Garden
including gold, weaponry and See how the fruit, flowers and
spectacular artworks from the Tulip Festival
From 17 April-3 May 2021 vegetables were planted, tended and
Royal Collection. harvested for the kings table in the
In spring 2021, Hampton Court
Queen’s Apartments Palace will become a kaleidoscope 18th century in this enormous
Climb the Queen’s Staircase to of colours as thousands of tulips garden, full of produce.
discover the impressively decorated bloom throughout the gardens and
grand State Apartments originally the courtyards. A special trail will
built for Queen Mary II, redecorated guide visitors around the stunning
by Queen Anne and occupied by The Maze
displays, revealing the history of
George II and Queen Caroline, the Commissioned around 1700 by
the tulips, believed to date back to
last monarchs to live at Hampton William III, this large and complex
Mary II (1662-1694). Our expert
Court Palace. maze is one of the oldest surviving
gardening team will also be on
hedge mazes in the country and
hand to provide tips and infor-
covers a third of an acre – make
mation to keen gardeners during
sure your groups have their wits
their visit. Included in admission.
about them if they choose to brave
the maze!
16 17P LA N YOUR VISIT GU I D E D TO U RS A N D DAYS O U T I D EAS
Give your groups an even more
Top Tips Recommended Visit Time We suggest at least 4 hours
memorable visit by booking a Opening times
Henry VIII’s Apartments 40 min Queen’s State Apartments 30 min guided tour or private visit 27 March – 30 October 2021
• Book your group’s timeslot Wednesday - Sunday:
online via our website to secure Henry VIII’s Kitchens 40 min The Gardens 1 hr Morning Tours 10.30-18.00hrs – admission by
their admission Experience the delights of half hourly timeslot
William III’s Apartments 40 min The Maze it depends...
Hampton Court Palace without the Last admission time slot: 16.30hrs
• Enhance your group visit by Gold and Glory: Henry VIII 45 min usual crowds. Choose a theme from
booking a Palace Accredited and the French King History where it happened, Glorious 31 October – 28 February 2022
Guide for a tour of the palace Gardens or Magnificent artwork, all Wednesday - Sunday:
and gardens led by our expert guides. After your 10.30 – 16.30hrs – admission by
Admission prices 01 March 2021-28 February 2022 tour, you will have the opportunity half hourly timeslot
• Save time in your itinerary by to enjoy breakfast in a private Last admission time slot: 15.00hrs
pre-booking Meal Deal catering Individual price – gate and online Group price apartment before discovering more
vouchers Adult £25.30 £23.30 about the palace. Your 3-hour Monday - Tuesday: Closed
Concession £20.20 £18.60 experience will take place between
• Hampton Court Station is just 09.00-11.00, maximum 24 guests 24-26 December: Closed
half an hour from London Child £12.60 £11.60
at £1,500+ VAT. Tours available
Waterloo Station in zone 6 Family 1 adult £37.90 n/a Daytime Tours
Monday-Friday exc bank holidays. Booking
and can be accessed using Family 2 adults £63.20 n/a Choose from our selection of themed Book your time slot online
a Transport for London zone tours including; Collection Access: www.hrp.org.uk/travel-trade.
Horses, Heritage and Feasting
6 Travelcard or a prepaid “Behind the Scenes”, Rooftop Views, For assistance with your booking
Every weekday from 09.00, meet the
Oyster Card – see www.tfl.gov.uk Key Glorious Gardens or Rogues to requirements, email
descendants of Henry VIII’s great
for more information Royals: Unruly Residents, before booking.confirmations@hrp.org.uk.
shire horses before the palace opens
enjoying some refreshments in your
CATERING to the public. Meet your footmen for
• Coach parking is free on FACILITY own private apartment. Your Coach parking
the morning and climb aboard the
Hampton Court Green, a exclusive 3-hour experience between Coach parking is available free of
SHOPS ornate carriage fit for royalty. Take in
15-minute walk from the main 10.00-17.00 is for a maximum of charge for 8 coaches on Hampton
the splendour of the Great Fountain
entrance of the palace. Coach 24 guests at £1000+VAT plus your Court Green or at a cost of £25 per
COACH PARKS Garden and Home Park before
parking is also available at choice of breakfast, light lunch day on weekdays, £15 per day on
arriving back at the palace for a spot
Hampton Court Station TOILETS: or afternoon tea. Available weekends and Bank Holidays at
GENTLEMAN of breakfast in a private apartment.
for a charge. Monday-Friday with a supplement the coach park next to Hampton
Your personal guide will meet you
TOILETS: of £1,000+VAT for weekend tours. Court Rail Station (Prices correct
LADIES and take you on a choice of tour
around the palace. Choose between a at time of going to press).
OILETS:
T rooftop tour (maximum 15 guests) or
DISABLED
a history tour. £2,500+VAT for up to Audio Guides Group catering
OVERGROUND 20 guests. Available free of charge, digital au- Please see pages 6 and 7 for
TRAIN LINE
dio guides can be collected from the catering information.
Information Centre in Base Court,
providing a user friendly, modern
way to explore our stunning palace.
Please email groupsandtraveltrade@
hrp.org.uk for further information.
18 19KENSINGTON
PALACE
A palace of secret stories and public lives, Kensington Palace,
situated in beautiful parkland in the centre of London, was designed
as a royal residence for William III & Mary II by Sir Christopher Wren.
More recently, it has been the official residence of Princess Margaret,
Diana Princess of Wales, and is currently home to the Duke and
Duchess of Cambridge and their family. A visit reveals the surprising
stories of many of the palace’s inhabitants over the centuries.
21M UST S EE ATTRACTIONS MUST SE E ATT RACT I O N S
King’s State Apartments
Climb the magnificent King’s
Staircase where Georgian courtiers
peer down on you, marvel at the
impressively decorated rooms and
discover the fashionable world of
the curious court of George II and
Queen Caroline.
Queen’s State Apartments
Explore the small intimate rooms
where the great tale of the Stuart
dynasty reaches its tragic conclusion.
Palace Gardens
The beautifully transformed gardens
reconnect the building with the
landscape of Kensington Gardens
providing picturesque walks and
Victoria - A royal childhood Life Through A Royal Lens fantastic vistas.
In the very rooms that Queen Coming in 2022
Victoria grew up in, discover a This exhibition will explore the
surprisingly playful, creative and impact of Queen Victoria and
inventive child who would one day Prince Albert’s patronage of
rule over the largest empire the photography during its infancy
world had ever known. and showcases never before seen
private photos taken by members
of the Royal Family including
works by fashion photographer
Victorian Tiaras and husband to Princess
Gaze at the glittering suite of gems Margaret, Lord Snowdon.
specially commissioned for Victoria Included in admission.
by her beloved Albert. The display
includes the magnificent diamond
and emerald diadem, emerald
necklace, earrings and brooch.
22 23P LA N YOUR VISIT GU I D E D TO U RS A N D DAYS O U T I D EAS
Top Tips Recommended Visit Time We suggest 2 hours
Opening times
04 March - 31 October 2021
• Book your group’s timeslot Victoria: A royal childhood 30 min Queens State Apartments 20 min Wednesday-Sunday: 10:30-
online via our website to secure Life through a royal lens 30 min Palace Gardens 30 min 18:00hrs – admission by half
their admission hourly timeslot
Kings State Apartments 30 min Last admission time slot: 16:00hrs
• Allow 15-20 minutes for your
01 November 2021 – 28 February 2022
group to walk through Admission prices 04 March 2021 – 09 June 2021 and 18 October – 3 January 2022
Wednesday – Sunday 10.30-
Kensington Gardens from the
16.00hrs – admission by half
coach park on Bayswater Road Individual price – gate and online Group price hourly timeslot
to ensure they arrive on time for Adult £21 .50 £19.80 Last admission time slot: 14.30hrs
their timed admission
Concession £17.20 £15.90
Child £10.70 £9.90 Monday - Tuesday: Closed
• For those with access
requirements please email Family 1 adult £32.20 n/a 24-26 December: Closed
the Contact Centre to make Family 2 adults £53.70 n/a
Booking
arrangements booking.confirma Book your time slot online
tions@hrp.org.uk 10 June – 17 October 2021 hrp.org.uk/travel-trade.
Give your groups an even more Private Evening Tours For assistance with your booking
• Enhance your group visit Individual price – gate and online Group price memorable visit by booking a If you would prefer an evening tour,
requirements, email
and include refreshments guided tour or private visit groups can now experience the
Adult £24 .50 £22.60 booking.confirmations@hrp.org.uk
in the Pavilion. Delicious delights of the palace after the doors
brunches, lunches and afternoon Concession £19.60 £18.10 Early Morning Tours close to the public. Starting at 17.00 Coach parking
teas can be arranged for Child £12.25 £11.30 Join one of our Palace Explainers at in the winter and 18.00 in the summer, There is a coach park north of the
pre-booked groups Family 1 adult £36.75 n/a 09.00 for a fascinating guided tour join your guide for an hour tour of the palace on Bayswater Road. Open
Family 2 adults £61.25 n/a of the State Apartments and the State Apartments and the Victoria: 24 hours, it costs £38 for up to 12
• Take a stroll around the palace Victoria: A royal childhood A royal childhood exhibition hours, 12-24 hours £48.
grounds in the spring or summer exhibition an hour before the palace after the crowds have departed. Tours
officially opens. After the tour, are £1000+VAT for up to 10 people, Pay and display or pay by phone.
to view the beautiful planting Key
discover more of the palace at additional guests at £100 per person, Prices correct at the time of going
in the Sunken Garden in its
leisure as it opens to the public from maximum 60 people. Contact to press. Contact Euro Carparks
full glory. CATERING
FACILITY 10.00. This unique experience costs events@hrp.org.uk for availability. 020 7563 3000.
£650 plus VAT for up to 10 guests,
SHOPS
thereafter £65 per person plus VAT Please allow 10-15 minutes for
COACH PARKS
maximum 60 per tour. groups to walk through Kensington
UREAU DE
B Gardens to the palace entrance.
CHANGE
For coaches with less able
TOILETS:
GENTLEMAN passengers, please contact
groupsandtraveltrade@hrp.org.uk
TOILETS:
LADIES for closer drop off arrangements.
OILETS:
T
DISABLED Group catering
UNDERGROUND Please see pages 6 and 7 for
TRAIN LINE catering information.
24 25KEW PALACE
THE R OYA L K ITC HENS, Q U EEN C HA R LOTTE’S
C OTTAG E A ND THE G R EAT PAG O DA
Explore the royal landscape at Kew. The intimate palace brings
to life the joys and sorrows of George III and his family.
Discover the eating habits of the royal household in the Royal
Kitchens and where they enjoyed family outings and tea at
Queen Charlotte’s Cottage. Lastly the Great Pagoda, designed
by William Chambers for the royal family in the 18th century,
the 163ft tall building was so exotic that a suspicious public
were unconvinced it would remain standing.
27M UST S EE ATTRACTIONS MUST S E E ATT RACT I O N S
1 George: The Mind Behind
the Myth
From 1 April - 26 September 2021
2020 marked 200 years since the
death of George III. George grew
up at Kew Palace, but later in
his life, it became a place of
incarceration and torment during
his periods of mental illness.
Through objects and interpretation
in the palace rooms, explore
George III’s illness, treatment
and public attitudes to how we
think and talk about mental
illness today.
The Great Pagoda at Kew
The Great Pagoda, recently restored
to its 18th century grandeur, is open
to those brave enough to take its 253
Kew Palace Royal Kitchens steps to the top! As you climb, learn
Enter the intimate world of 18th Situated in an adjacent building, why the Pagoda was built and how
century royalty. Over three floors, so as not to pollute the palace with the royal family used this unique
meet George III and his family in the cooking smells, discover the building in the 18th century. Enjoy
very rooms they inhabited. Explore ingredients and methods used to spectacular views of modern
the Queen’s Boudoir where Queen prepare food for the royal table. London and look out for the 80
Charlotte would spend hours at Stroll through the kitchen garden Queen Charlotte’s cottage specially designed rooftop dragons.
needlework, spinning and knotting. where the produce is still grown Situated in Kew Gardens, and open An additional ticket is required to
Learn what some guests had to say using the Georgian methods. at weekends in the summer months, climb to the top. Opening subject to
about the King’s hospitality in The this is where the royal family enjoyed government guidelines.
King’s Dining Room and discover picnics and tea parties during long
Princess Elizabeth and Queen summer walks through the gardens.
Charlotte’s bedrooms. Built as a country retreat, and not a
residence this is a perfect example of
historic royals at play, and relaxing
behind closed doors.
28 29P LA N YOUR VISIT GU I D E D TO U RS A N D DAYS O U T I D EAS
Top Tips Recommended Visit Time At least 4 hours including Kew Gardens
Opening times
Palace 1 hr The Great Pagoda 30 min Kew Palace
• Pre-book your group admission
1 April - 26 September 2021
time slot for Kew Palace Kew Gardens 2 hrs Royal Kitchens and Garden 30 min Daily: 10.30-17.30hrs
when booking Kew Gardens as
Queen Charlotte’s cottage 30 min Last admission time slot: 17.00hrs
the palace can get very busy
(summer weekends only) The Royal Kitchens
• Don’t forget to visit Queen 1 April - 26 September 2021
Charlotte’s Cottage nestled in Daily: 10.30-17.30hrs
Admission prices
the bluebell woods Last admission time slot: 17.00hrs
Kew Palace, the Royal Kitchens and Queen Charlotte’s Cottage are included Queen Charlotte’s Cottage
• Pay a visit to the Great Pagoda
during opening season in admission to Kew Gardens. Please visit Weekends and Bank Holidays
and marvel at the beautifully
throughout the summer
carved dragons, which return to www.kew.org or contact groups@kew.org.uk for prices and bookings.
11.00-16.00hrs
adorn the rooves for the first
Last admission time slot: 15.50hrs
time since 1784. The Great Pagoda
3 April to 30 September and October Half Term 2021 The Great Pagoda
Adult - £4.50, Child £3.00 3 April-27 September and October
Half Term 2021
Daily: 10.30-17.30hrs
Last admission time slot: 17.00hrs
Key
Give your groups an even more Palace and kitchens tours Kew Gardens
CATERING memorable visit by booking a Enhance your group visit to Kew Open daily from 10.00hrs. Please
FACILITY
guided tour or private visit Palace and enjoy an intimate daytime check www.kew.org for closing
tour that includes the palace and Royal
COACH PARKS
Kitchens with our costumed palace times.
Exclusive morning and evening experts, £10 per person.
TOILETS:
tours of Kew Palace Booking
GENTLEMAN
Discover this intimate royal family To pre-book your joint visit to
TOILETS:
home that hosted both the happy Kew Gardens and Kew Palace
LADIES
and sad times of King George III and Royal Kitchens contact
OILETS:
T and his family with one of our expert groups@kew.org or call
DISABLED
guides. Morning tours (09.00-10.00) +44 (0) 20 8332 5648.
are £650+VAT for up to 15 people,
OVERGROUND
Coach parking
TRAIN LINE thereafter £65+VAT per person.
Please visit www.kew.org for
Evening tours (18.00-19.00) are
OVERGROUND
details of pick-up and drop off or
TRAIN LINE £450+VAT for 15 people, thereafter
email groups@kew.org.
£30+VAT per person. Contact
events@hrp.org.uk for availability. Group catering
Groups can arrange refreshments
with the caterers at Kew Gardens
by calling +44 (0) 20 8332 5186.
30 31HILLSBOROUGH
CASTLE AND
GARDENS
Hillsborough Castle and Gardens is the spectacular official
residence of the Royal Family in Northern Ireland. Explore the
stunningly renovated State Rooms, including the grand Throne
Room and Red Room where key political figures and royalty alike
have gathered, then venture outside to discover the delights
of the 100-acre gardens, whatever the season.
33M UST S EE ATTRACTIONS MUST S E E ATT RACT I O N S
The Walled Garden The Weston Pavilion
The Walled Garden dates to the 18th The Weston Pavilion has all
Century and is a large, four-acre the services you will require on
site historically used to produce arriving or departing the attraction.
fruit, vegetables and flowers for the Ticketing facilities, toilets, a chance
house. Restored and re-presented, to relax in the Hillsborough Castle
explore this beautiful working and Cafe and an opportunity to partake
productive garden, complete with in some retail therapy in the shop.
dipping pond, crop rotations,
seasonal produce served in the café
and potting sheds. Herbaceous
borders and an apple orchard can The Gardens
also be seen. Wander at leisure through the
historic gardens, which were
developed from the 1760’s onwards.
Explore intriguing contrasts between
Castle tour ornate formal gardens, woodland
Discover stories of celebration, and meadows. Keep an eye out for
entertainment, diplomacy and specimen trees and rare plants as you
negotiation as our expert Explainers explore the grounds.
take you on a 45-minute tour of
Hillsborough Castle’s fascinating
history and stunning State Rooms.
State Rooms
During your castle tour, you will
be introduced to all the State Rooms
that make up this elegant Georgian
home including; the grand Throne
Room, relaxing State Drawing
Room, Lady Grey’s Study, State
Dining Room, Red Room and
Staircase Hall.
34 35P LA N YOUR VISIT GU I D E D TO U RS A N D DAYS O U T I D EAS
Top Tips Castle Tour and Garden admission price 01 March 2021-28 February 2022
Recommended visit time
2 hours
• Book your group’s Castle tour Individual price Group price Guided Castle tour
timeslot online via our website Adult £14 .20 £13.06 45 minutes
to secure their admission Concession £11.40 £10.49
Garden visit
Child £7.10 £6.53 1 hour, but there’s lots to explore
• Arrive 45 minutes before your
Family 1 adult £21.30 n/a so stay as long as you like!
Castle tour timeslot to ensure
you don’t miss your tour Family 2 adults £35.50 n/a
Opening times
• Our new Coach Park is located Gardens only admission 01 March 2021 - 28 February 2022 01 April – 30 October 2021
close to the Weston Pavilion Thursday – Sunday: 10.00 –
where you’ll find toilets, 17.00hrs – Castle admission by
Individual price Group price
ticketing and a café and shop. 15 minute time slots
Adult £10.20 £9.40 Last admission time slot: 16.00hrs
Ensure you allow enough time
Concession £8.15 £7.50
in your itinerary for your group
to enjoy this area too Child £5.10 £4.70 Group bookings taken daily
Family 1 adult £15.30 n/a according to availability
• The Stable Yard Tea Room, Family 2 adults £25.50 n/a 31 October 2021 – 28 February 2022
located opposite the Castle Group bookings Thursday – Sunday: 10.00 –
entrance, offers drinks and For assistance with your group 16.00hrs – Castle admission by
snacks and is a great place to Key booking requirements, email 15 minute time slots
rest whilst awaiting your booking.confirmations@hrp.org.uk Last admission time slot: 15.00hrs
Castle tour CATERING
FACILITY
Coach parking Group bookings taken daily
• Just 30 minutes from Belfast or The coach park has direct access from according to availabiltiy
COACH PARKS
an hour and a half from Dublin the A1 dual carriageway. There are 12
on the main road between the TOILETS:
coach parking spaces free of charge Gardens only admission
two cities, Hillsborough is a
MAP ON
GENTLEMAN
on a first come first served basis for 01 April – 30 October 2021
convenient stop off for castle and garden visitors. Thursday – Sunday:
TH E WAY
TOILETS:
your itinerary. LADIES
10.00 – 17.00hrs
OILETS:
T Access from Weston Pavilion Last admission time slot: 16.00hrs
DISABLED
to Castle
31 October 2021 – 28 February 2022
A pleasant stroll through the gardens
OVERGROUND
Thursday – Sunday:
TRAIN LINE takes approximately 20 minutes from
10.00 – 16.00hrs
the Weston Pavilion to the Castle
OVERGROUND Last admission time slot: 15.00hrs
TRAIN LINE itself. For visitors who require
mobility assistance or for those who 24-26 December: Closed
are time restricted please contact
booking.confirmations@hrp.org.uk
prior to your visit for more
information. The castle itself is fully
wheelchair accessible.
36 37BANQUETING
HOUSE
This revolutionary building was created for court entertainments
where a dazzling company of courtiers attended the exuberant
masques and danced and drank beneath the magnificent
Rubens-painted ceiling. But spare a thought for Charles I, who
in 1649, was beheaded on a scaffold outside to the ‘dismal,
universal groan’ of the crowd.
The Banqueting House is closed for visits in 2021 but remains
available for private events, gala dinners and receptions.
Banqueting House is the perfect backdrop for any event.
Host a grand dinner and reception for up to 400 guests or impress
your suppliers by hiring the venue for a conference.
To enquire for your next event please contact
events@hrp.org.uk for further information.
39G ET SO C IAL WITH US
Historic Royal Palaces has even more ways for Contact details
you to access regular updates and to take part Buy tickets for 15 or more people
in conversations about the past, present and future T: +44 (0) 333 320 6000
of our palaces, our works and your group visits E: booking.confirmations@hrp.org.uk
Book your groups online at www.hrp.org.uk/travel-trade
Join our online communities… Find out more about the palaces
For historical insights, forthcoming events and www.hrp.org.uk
behind-the-scenes access to the palaces and the people
that tell their stories, like us on Facebook, follow us on Ask the Travel Trade Team
Twitter and Instagram, join our LinkedIn group or T: +44 (0) 20 3166 6311
watch our videos on Youtube. E: groupsandtraveltrade@hrp.org.uk
Images of the palaces
www.hrp.org.uk/travel-trade
Souvenirs and shopping
T: +44 (0) 20 3166 6848
E: shop@hrp.org.uk
www.historicroyalpalaces.com
Corporate gifts
T: +44 (0) 20 3166 6857
E: corpgifts@hrp.org.uk
Parties and events
T: +44 (0) 20 3166 6399
E: events@hrp.org.uk
www.hrp.org.uk/hireavenue
TERMS AND CONDITIONS concessionary rate, Groups of children booking or any individual palace reserve the right to
our Education sessions and admissions should withdraw from public access any route, room or
Pricing validity is from 01 March 2021 to 28 be escorted by adults/seniors to the ratio of 1-6 area within a palace or its grounds without
February 2022. Historic Royal Palaces retain the for up to 6 years old and 1-10 for 7-16 years at all notice. Whilst every care is exercised in the
right to adjust prices during this period, should palaces. Groups of children booking the standard compilation of this manual, HRP or any individual
circumstances dictate. rates should be escorted adults/seniors to the palace cannot be held liable for any information
ratio of 1-15 for 6 years and up. that is inaccurate or subsequently changed.
Payment may be made by cash, major credit cards
(excluding Diners Card) and via the Agency It should be noted that Historic Royal Palaces Support materials (which are generally available
Voucher Scheme. (HRP), or any individual palace, may at any time free of charge) such as leaflets and images are
alter the opening times and/or availability of Crown Copyright and should only be used for the
A child is defined as aged between 5 years and access to any palace. In the event of palace purpose stated and not altered in any way without
15 years old. Children visiting the Magic Garden closure any pre-paid groups will receive a full express written agreement from HRP.
over the age of 3 will be charged. Young person’s refund of monies paid, but neither HRP nor any
16-18 years may obtain concessionary admission. individual palace will be liable for any Historic Royal Palaces is a registered charity
Senior citizens (65 and over) are admitted at the consequential loss arising from such closure. HRP (number 1068852)
40WWW.HRP.ORG.UK
TOWER OF LONDON HAMPTON COURT PALACE KENSINGTON PALACE
BANQUETING HOUSE KEW PALACE HILLSBOROUGH CASTLE
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